Tipp of the Week: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

Hello, Tipp City! Marc the Cop here,

So last week I was taking a flight to Florida. In my travels, I like to use direct flights if possible. The flight I would like to take is offered by a discount airline out of Dayton International Airport. This airline offers direct flights from Dayton (DAY) to Tampa/ St. Petersburg (PIE) twice weekly. This flight was late on Friday night. Late for me is anytime after 8:30 p.m. The flight was initially scheduled for 9:45 p.m., with arrival two hours later at 11:45 p.m.

My experience has been that the later in the day the flight is, the more travel plans can go sideways. This evening was no exception. The FAA has strict guidelines on how long an air crew can work in a given 24-hour period. Our plane had a minor maintenance issue that the Dayton Crew had to address. For some reason, according to the pilot, the technician took the plane's logbook with him back to the maintenance facility, thus keeping the aircraft with all the passengers on the ramp. By the time they tracked him down, the flight crews had timed out.

Flight Canceled!

By now, it's almost 1:00 a.m. Since my ride to the airport was in bed, I opted to Uber home. The airline rescheduled our flight for the next day at 1:00 p.m.

This was not the first time I had a flight canceled while on the aircraft. Susan and I were coming home from Police Week in Washington, D.C. Our aircraft had pushed back, so we began to taxi to the runway. Suddenly, we stopped and pulled back to the gate. Flight Canceled!

While others lined up for the one airline employee, we headed to baggage claim to retrieve our bags. We had a plan—a contingency. We got on the app for another airline out of Reagan International. While she was securing our flight, I got the bags, and she got us a shuttle ride from Dulles to Reagan. We were home, safe and sound, in three hours.

If your flight is cancelled, you must understand your options and prepare accordingly. Airlines generally provide specific contingencies based on the reason for the cancellation and their policies, but there are common steps you can take to minimize disruption.

·         First, check the airline’s policy. Most airlines offer rebooking on the next available flight at no additional cost if the cancellation is due to reasons within their control, such as mechanical issues or crew scheduling problems. If the cancellation is weather-related or due to air traffic control, the airline may still help you rebook, but they’re not always required to offer compensation.

·         When a flight is cancelled, act quickly. Contact the airline’s customer service via app, website, phone, or speak to a gate agent. You can often rebook faster through an airline’s mobile app than standing in line. If you booked through a third-party site or travel agent, you might need to go through them to make changes.

·         Airlines may sometimes provide vouchers for meals, transportation, or overnight accommodation, especially if you’re stranded due to their fault. These benefits vary widely, so you must ask what you’re entitled to.

·         Travel insurance can provide additional security. Many policies cover cancellations, primarily if they result in missed connections or require overnight stays. Ensure your policy includes coverage for disruptions you might face, and keep copies of receipts and communication with the airline for any claims.

·         Having a backup plan is wise. Research alternate flights, even on other airlines, and know your rights.

·         Lastly, pack essentials in your carry-on: medications, chargers, a change of clothes, and toiletries. This can make a big difference if you’re unexpectedly grounded overnight or your bag gets lost.

·         Being informed, staying calm, and acting quickly can turn a stressful cancellation into a manageable inconvenience. Knowing your rights and preparing ahead will put you in a much better position to adapt and get back on track. Have a plan B, and even a Plan C.

The end to my story was that the airline offered us a nice refund, and my flight was virtually free for the inconvenience.

Safe Travels!

Remember the 9 PM routine! The 9 PM routine is a nightly reminder for residents to remove valuables from their vehicles, lock their vehicle doors, secure their residences, turn on exterior lights, and activate all alarms and security systems.

That is all for this week! Please be safe and care for one another.

I'll see you in church on Sunday!

Sgt. Marc Basye (Ret.)

Do you have a suggestion for the Tip of the Week? Your input is valuable to us. You can email me at Marcthecop@tippgazette.com!

The opinions and statements in this column are those of the author, who is not affiliated with any law enforcement agency. This column is for entertainment purposes only. Persons referred to may be fictional for comedic purposes only.